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Why do the BVI? IV

© Carol O'Donnell

As we approached the three Caves etched along the side of the island we were told that this island, in fact this area in particular, was the inspiration behind Stevenson’s Treasure Island. While there may have been treasure at one time in these caves on Norman Island we were assured while snorkeling we would envision Mother Nature’s treasure – beautiful coral and colorful tropical fish.

Our captain found a good spot to anchor and our mate, Cam, helped us with our snorkel gear. For those who did not bring their own gear the boat had snorkel gear on board. After our fitting we gathered at the stern to become educated on the finer points of snorkeling. As Cam showed us how to properly fit a mask laughter and giggles floated from our group. This was not the intended reaction to what normally produces earnest attention. Cam whirled around mask, snorkel and all to view what our group saw approaching. Clearly within everyone’s vision was a private charter yacht full of middle age sailors. This is not an uncommon sight in itself with the exception everyone was totally nude. I giggled mostly because Cam appeared to be an out of water aquaman viewing the spectacle through a mask lens that, as was explained a few minutes ago, magnifies everything by 25%. And after all the warnings about possible naked people at the William Thornton should we instead casually run across folks sans clothes on a normal stop. Go figure.

For those in our group who were anxious to snorkel we didn’t take the time to ponder this style of free expression. I jumped into the water and as I floated and swam toward the caves my mask lens was filled with small fish and the beginnings of a coral formation. The reef was interesting to see as well as the fish. While it was a thrill to swim inside the Caves, the snorkeling there was marginal. What was exciting was swimming alongside the resident barracuda aptly named Norman. This four-foot monstrosity was a sight to behold. Remember the 25% magnification? Through the mask lens curious Norman looked to be about 6 feet long!

Once on board the boat we had the luxury of a fresh water rinse and more Pain Killers, too. Wrapped in towels and excitedly chatting about our visions we motored to our next stop, the Indians.

The Indians is a wonderful snorkeling site and one of the best in the Caribbean, as noted by Caribbean Travel. Christopher Columbus named the Indians during his sea travels as the craggy rock formations appear to look like Indians jutting out of the water. A coconut’s throw away is a rock called Pelican Island. That is, as you surely have surmised, flooded with Pelicans.